Looking for a luxury SUV that doesn’t dominate your garage or drain your wallet at the petrol station? The Lexus LBX might just be the answer you’ve been searching for. This isn’t just another small crossover trying to be something it’s not – it’s Lexus proving that luxury doesn’t always come in extra-large packages.
What Makes the LBX Special?
The LBX stands for “Lexus Breakthrough Crossover,” and it’s the first Lexus designed specifically with European drivers in mind. Unlike many manufacturers who simply badge-engineer existing models, Lexus has taken the Toyota Yaris Cross platform and completely transformed it into something that feels genuinely premium.
Smart Hybrid Technology That Actually Works
Under the bonnet sits a clever 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor, delivering 134bhp combined. This might not sound earth-shattering, but it’s perfectly suited to city driving and delivers impressive real-world economy figures around 60mpg.
The hybrid system is what Lexus calls “self-charging,” meaning you never need to plug it in. The electric motor kicks in during low-speed driving, making it whisper-quiet around town, while the petrol engine takes over for longer journeys.
Performance That Surprises
Don’t expect sports car thrills, but the LBX is more capable than you might think. The front-wheel-drive version can sprint from 0-62mph in 9.2 seconds, which puts it ahead of many rivals in this class. All-wheel-drive versions are slightly slower at 9.6 seconds but offer better traction in challenging conditions.
Interior Quality That Punches Above Its Weight
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice this isn’t a typical small car interior. Lexus has lavished attention on materials and build quality, with soft-touch surfaces, premium upholstery, and thoughtful design details throughout.
Tech Features Done Right
The 9.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a massive improvement over previous Lexus systems. It’s responsive, well-designed, and actually intuitive to use – something that hasn’t always been Lexus’s strength.
Electric door releases add a premium touch, while features like selectable ambient lighting help create an upscale atmosphere that rivals much more expensive vehicles.
Space Reality Check
Here’s where honesty matters: the LBX prioritizes luxury over space. Front passengers will be comfortable, but rear passengers might feel a bit cramped, especially on longer journeys. The boot offers 402 litres in front-wheel-drive models, dropping to 315 litres with all-wheel drive.
Trim Levels and Pricing
| Trim Level | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Urban (£29,995) | 17″ alloys, LED headlights, dual-zone climate, 9.8″ touchscreen, parking sensors |
| Premium | Upgraded interior materials, larger wheels, additional safety features |
| F Sport | Sporty styling elements, unique wheels, sport-tuned suspension |
| Luxury | Premium leather, heated seats, advanced driver assistance |
| Sports Luxury | Alcantara upholstery, premium audio, enhanced comfort features |
| Takumi | Top-spec interior, all-wheel drive available, maximum luxury features |
| Takumi Design | Range-topping model, unique design elements, full luxury specification |
Running Costs That Make Sense
Fuel Economy in the Real World
Independent tests consistently show the LBX achieving fuel economy figures in the 50-60mpg range, depending on driving conditions. City driving, where the electric motor does most of the work, can yield even better results.
Insurance and Maintenance
As a Lexus, the LBX benefits from the brand’s excellent reliability record. Lexus finished second out of 31 brands in recent reliability surveys, which should translate to lower maintenance costs over time.
Who Should Consider the LBX?
Urban Professionals
If you spend most of your time navigating city streets and car parks, the LBX’s compact dimensions and hybrid efficiency make perfect sense. It’s easy to park, cheap to run, and feels properly luxurious.
Empty Nesters
For those downsizing from a larger family car but not wanting to compromise on luxury, the LBX offers premium features in a more manageable package.
First-Time Lexus Buyers
As the cheapest entry point into the Lexus range, the LBX allows buyers to experience the brand’s famous attention to detail without the price tag of larger models.
How It Compares to Rivals
The LBX’s closest competitor is probably the Audi Q2, though that model is nearing the end of its lifecycle. Against more mainstream alternatives like the Toyota C-HR or Ford Puma, the LBX offers noticeably better interior quality and refinement, albeit at a premium price.
The Verdict
The Lexus LBX succeeds in its mission to bring genuine luxury to the compact SUV segment. Yes, it’s more expensive than mainstream alternatives, and rear passenger space is limited, but for the right buyer, it offers a unique combination of premium quality, hybrid efficiency, and city-friendly dimensions.
It’s not trying to be all things to all people – and that’s exactly why it works so well for its intended audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the LBX available with plug-in hybrid technology?
A: No, the LBX uses a traditional self-charging hybrid system that never needs to be plugged in.
Q: How does the all-wheel-drive system work?
A: AWD models add a small electric motor to the rear axle, providing extra traction in slippery conditions rather than enhanced performance.
Q: Is the LBX suitable for long-distance driving?
A: While primarily designed for urban use, the LBX is comfortable on longer journeys, though rear passengers might prefer shorter trips.
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